Events, News & FAQ
Exploring a PhD is a big decision, and we want to make sure you have all the information—and inspiration—you need. CERGE-EI offers interactive events, personalized office hours, and in-person experiences where you can meet our faculty, explore research, and learn about life as a PhD student. Please see our Event Calendar for current offer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the deadline for PhD in Economics?
- What is the program—and what is it not?
- What are the entry requirements?
- Can I apply straight out of a Bachelor’s degree?
- Do EU applicants qualify for financial support?
- How do I apply?
- What should my application include?
- What if my documents arrive late?
- What level of English do I need?
- Do I need to submit an English test if I studied in English?
- How does my degree affect my eligibility?
- Can I apply if I finish my degree after the deadline?
- Can I update my application after submission?
- I forgot to enter my referees' contact info—what now?
- How does the admissions process work?
- When will I know the admission results?
- If I’m not admitted this year, can I apply again next year?
1. When is the deadline for PhD in Economics?
The application deadline is March 31 at 23:59 CET. Only complete applications with all required documents and a paid application fee submitted by the deadline will be considered. Unfortunately, we cannot accept any late materials.
2. What is the program—and what is it not?
Our PhD program offers rigorous training in theoretical and applied economics, preparing students for research-focused careers. While some graduates enter the private sector, this is not an MBA program. At CERGE-EI, you’ll earn a degree in Economics as a scientific discipline.
3. What are the entry requirements?
You’ll need a Master’s degree (or be on track to finish one by September), solid English skills proven by a recognized exam, and a strong background in mathematics. Previous study in economics is an advantage, but we strongly encourage applicants from other fields if they have the necessary math preparation.
4. Can I apply straight out of a Bachelor’s degree?
With a bachelor's degree, you can apply to our Master's program in Economic Research and continue to a PhD after completing it.
5. Do EU applicants qualify for financial support?
All admitted PhD students—regardless of nationality—are guaranteed financial support. The amount depends on academic performance.
Submit all application materials, including recommendation letters, through our online system (or by post) by March 31 (23:59 CET). Once submitted, the Admissions Coordinator will review your application for completeness.
7. What should my application include?
- A completed online application
- Statement of motivation
- Current CV
- Copies of your BA and MA diplomas and transcripts (in English)
- 2–3 academic references
- Proof of English proficiency
- Submitting GRE or GMAT scores is optional but highly encouraged.
8. What if my documents arrive late
Because the admissions process begins immediately after the deadline, we cannot guarantee that late documents will be reviewed. Please plan ahead!
9. What level of English do I need?
Strong written and spoken English is essential. Non-native speakers must provide a valid English proficiency test score from IELTS, TOEFL (code IC 2403), Duolingo, or Cambridge exams.
10. Do I need to submit an English test if I studied in English?
Only if your entire degree (BA or MA) was completed in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the UK, Ireland, Malta or the US can the English test requirement be waived. Otherwise, a valid test score is required (except Cambridge exams, all others must be under 2 years old).
11. How does my degree affect my eligibility?
Applicants should hold, or be about to complete, a Master’s degree that can be recognized in the Czech Republic. Recognition depends on your university and the educational system in your country. If you are still a bachelor student or graduate interested in a PhD, you are encouraged to apply through the advanced PhD track of our Master in Economic Research program.
12. Can I apply if I finish my degree after the deadline?
Yes. Just include a confirmation from your university stating there are no obstacles to your graduation, along with your expected graduation date. However, to enroll in the doctoral program, you must have successfully completed your previous education and obtained your MA degree by September of the academic year for which you are applying.
13. Can I update my application after submission?
Generally, no—once you submit, changes aren’t possible. However, if the Admissions Office identifies an issue or needs additional information, they may contact you to request specific updates. Please review everything carefully before submitting.
14. I forgot to enter my referees' contact info—what now
Please contact the Study Affairs Office at
15. How does the admissions process work?
Student applications are first reviewed, and if the Admissions Office requires additional information, it will contact students directly. The Admissions Committee then evaluates all applications and invites selected candidates for interviews. After the interviews, students may be admitted directly or required to complete an intensive online course followed by a mathematics test.
16. When will I know the admission results?
Direct admission decisions are announced in late April. Final results for Preparatory Course participants are shared in early June.
17. If I’m not admitted this year, can I apply again next year?
We welcome repeat applicants. Just remember to resubmit all application materials, as we don’t carry over documents from previous years.
